With just $20,000 and 200 volunteer hours the Rosslyn Business Improvement District in Arlington, VA turned an eyesore into a colorful public space.
(Boonton, NJ, March 1, 2011) — A creative use of available resources, no matter how limited, can improve an otherwise bad situation.
The developer, JBG Companies, had already demolished two major buildings within the Rosslyn BID in Arlington, VA, when the economy - and construction - stalled. What could have remained an eyesore was instead converted to a public plaza and rain garden.
The plaza is colorfully painted and features tables, chairs, benches, a stage and whimsical sails flying overhead to provide shade. It has become a popular downtown lunch spot and music venue.
$20,000 plus 200 volunteer hours from everyone from the Rosslyn BID to the Girl Scouts made this vacant lot a true community asset.
Full details on this program appear in the March issue of Downtown Idea Exchange.
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About the Downtown Research & Development Center
For over 50 years, the Downtown Research & Development Center has acted as the information clearinghouse on practical strategies and tactics for revitalizing the hearts of our cities and towns.
The Group\'s main activities include publishing the widely influential Downtown Idea Exchange and Downtown Promotion Reporter newsletters; publishing relevant books and reports; and operating the DowntownDevelopment.com website.
Website: http://www.DowntownDevelopment.com